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Research sheds light on Finch personality
Photo: Nigel Jacques
Scientists from RVC and Liverpool reveal research

The personality of a Gouldian Finch differs according to its head colour, researchers from Liverpool John Moores University and the Royal Veterinary College have revealed.

A research team investigated the "highly sociable" Australian birds through a series of behavioural tests to better comprehend their bright appearance. Red-headed finches were shown to be more aggressive, while those with black heads were bolder and took more risks.

Gouldian finches are found in open, subtropical woodland and are renowned for their colourful plumage. The majority have either red or black heads, and a small number have yellow.

Lead researcher Leah Williams commented: "Our idea is that the colour signals their behavioural tactics."

She added: "The next step is to find out which birds associate with which. Do reds hang our with blacks and do they do better for that?" 

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.